t.

me/diyorbeksielts
Simon’s
IELTS Task 2
Band 9 example essays
collection.

2010-2019

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Wednesday, August 18, 2010
IELTS Writing Task 2: full essay
Usually I suggest writing 4 paragraphs for task 2. However, sometimes it
might be better to write 5 paragraphs. The following essay question has
three parts, so I've written three main body paragraphs (5 paragraphs in
total).
Explain some of the ways in which humans are damaging the
environment. What can governments do to address these problems?
What can individual people do?
Humans are responsible for a variety of environmental problems, but we
can also take steps to reduce the damage that we are causing to the
planet. This essay will discuss environmental problems and the measures
that governments and individuals can take to address these problems.
Two of the biggest threats to the environment are air pollution and waste.
Gas emissions from factories and exhaust fumes from vehicles lead to
global warming, which may have a devastating effect on the planet in the
future. As the human population increases, we are also producing ever
greater quantities of waste, which contaminates the earth and pollutes
rivers and oceans.
Governments could certainly make more effort to reduce air pollution. They
could introduce laws to limit emissions from factories or to force companies
to use renewable energy from solar, wind or water power. They could also
impose ‘green taxes’ on drivers and airline companies. In this way, people
would be encouraged to use public transport and to take fewer flights
abroad, therefore reducing emissions.
Individuals should also take responsibility for the impact they have on the
environment. They can take public transport rather than driving, choose
products with less packaging, and recycle as much as possible. Most
supermarkets now provide reusable bags for shoppers as well as ‘banks’
for recycling glass, plastic and paper in their car parks. By reusing and
recycling, we can help to reduce waste.
In conclusion, both national governments and individuals must play their
part in looking after the environment.
Note:
This essay is exactly 250 words long. I've tried to make it as simple as
possible, but it's still good enough to get a band 9.
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Wednesday, March 09, 2011
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'minority languages' essay
Today, I'd like to share a 'band 9' sample essay for the question below.
Several languages are in danger of extinction because they are
spoken by very small numbers of people. Some people say that
governments should spend public money on saving these languages,
while others believe that would be a waste of money.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
It is true that some minority languages may disappear in the near future.
Although it can be argued that governments could save money by allowing
this to happen, I believe that these languages should be protected and
preserved.
There are several reasons why saving minority languages could be seen
as a waste of money. Firstly, if a language is only spoken by a small
number of people, expensive education programmes will be needed to
make sure that more people learn it, and the state will have to pay for
facilities, teachers and marketing. This money might be better spent on
other public services. Secondly, it would be much cheaper and more
efficient for countries to have just one language. Governments could cut all
kinds of costs related to communicating with each minority group.
Despite the above arguments, I believe that governments should try to
preserve languages that are less widely spoken. A language is much more
than simply a means of communication; it has a vital connection with the
cultural identity of the people who speak it. If a language disappears, a
whole way of life will disappear with it, and we will lose the rich cultural
diversity that makes societies more interesting. By spending money to
protect minority languages, governments can also preserve traditions,
customs and behaviours that are part of a country’s history.
In conclusion, it may save money in the short term if we allow minority
languages to disappear, but in the long term this would have an extremely
negative impact on our cultural heritage.
(258 words)
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Wednesday, April 20, 2011
IELTS Writing Task 2: sample discussion essay
Here's an example of how I write a 4-paragraph essay for "discuss and
give your opinion" questions. Notice that I give my opinion in 3 places
(introduction, paragraph 3, conclusion).
Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best
route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to
get a job straight after school.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
When they finish school, teenagers face the dilemma of whether to get a
job or continue their education. While there are some benefits to getting a
job straight after school, I would argue that it is better to go to college or
university.
The option to start work straight after school is attractive for several
reasons. Many young people want to start earning money as soon as
possible. In this way, they can become independent, and they will be able
to afford their own house or start a family. In terms of their career, young
people who decide to find work, rather than continue their studies, may
progress more quickly. They will have the chance to gain real experience
and learn practical skills related to their chosen profession. This may lead
to promotions and a successful career.
On the other hand, I believe that it is more beneficial for students to
continue their studies. Firstly, academic qualifications are required in many
professions. For example, it is impossible to become a doctor, teacher or
lawyer without having the relevant degree. As a result, university
graduates have access to more and better job opportunities, and they tend
to earn higher salaries than those with fewer qualifications. Secondly, the
job market is becoming increasingly competitive, and sometimes there are
hundreds of applicants for one position in a company. Young people who
do not have qualifications from a university or college will not be able to
compete.
For the reasons mentioned above, it seems to me that students are more
likely to be successful in their careers if they continue their studies beyond
school level.
(271 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, May 04, 2011
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'museums' essay
Some people think that museums should be enjoyable places to
entertain people, while others believe that the purpose of museums is
to educate.
Discuss both views and give you own opinion.
People have different views about the role and function of museums. In my
opinion, museums can and should be both entertaining and educational.
On the one hand, it can be argued that the main role of a museum is to
entertain. Museums are tourist attractions, and their aim is to exhibit a
collection of interesting objects that many people will want to see. The
average visitor may become bored if he or she has to read or listen to too
much educational content, so museums often put more of an emphasis on
enjoyment rather than learning. This type of museum is designed to be
visually spectacular, and may have interactive activities or even games as
part of its exhibitions.
On the other hand, some people argue that museums should focus on
education. The aim of any exhibition should be to teach visitors something
that they did not previously know. Usually this means that the history
behind the museum’s exhibits needs to be explained, and this can be done
in various ways. Some museums employ professional guides to talk to
their visitors, while other museums offer headsets so that visitors can listen
to detailed commentary about the exhibition. In this way, museums can
play an important role in teaching people about history, culture, science
and many other aspects of life.
In conclusion, it seems to me that a good museum should be able to offer
an interesting, enjoyable and educational experience so that people can
have fun and learn something at the same time.
(253 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, June 22, 2011
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'gender and university' essay
Here's my full essay using last week's plan:
Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female
students in every subject. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In my opinion, men and women should have the same educational
opportunities. However, I do not agree with the idea of accepting equal
proportions of each gender in every university subject.
Having the same number of men and women on all degree courses is
simply unrealistic. Student numbers on any course depend on the
applications that the institution receives. If a university decided to fill
courses with equal numbers of males and females, it would need enough
applicants of each gender. In reality, many courses are more popular with
one gender than the other, and it would not be practical to aim for equal
proportions. For example, nursing courses tend to attract more female
applicants, and it would be difficult to fill these courses if fifty per cent of
the places needed to go to males.
Apart from the practical concerns expressed above, I also believe that it
would be unfair to base admission to university courses on gender.
Universities should continue to select the best candidates for each course
according to their qualifications. In this way, both men and women have
the same opportunities, and applicants know that they will be successful if
they work hard to achieve good grades at school. If a female student is the
best candidate for a place on a course, it is surely wrong to reject her in
favour of a male student with lower grades or fewer qualifications.
In conclusion, the selection of university students should be based on
merit, and it would be both impractical and unfair to change to a selection
procedure based on gender.
(265 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, November 02, 2011
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'equality' topic
Here's my full (band 9) essay for last week's question.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between
equality and personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals
can achieve more in egalitarian societies. Others believe that high levels of
personal achievement are possible only if individuals are free to succeed
or fail according to their individual merits.
What is your view of the relationship between equality and personal
success?
In my opinion, an egalitarian society is one in which everyone has the same
rights and the same opportunities. I completely agree that people can achieve
more in this kind of society.
Education is an important factor with regard to personal success in life. I
believe that all children should have access to free schooling, and higher
education should be either free or affordable for all those who chose to
pursue a university degree. In a society without free schooling or affordable
higher education, only children and young adults from wealthier families
would have access to the best learning opportunities, and they would
therefore be better prepared for the job market. This kind of inequality would
ensure the success of some but harm the prospects of others.
I would argue that equal rights and opportunities are not in conflict with
people’s freedom to succeed or fail. In other words, equality does not mean
that people lose their motivation to succeed, or that they are not allowed to
fail. On the contrary, I believe that most people would feel more motivated to
work hard and reach their potential if they thought that they lived in a fair
society. Those who did not make the same effort would know that they had
wasted their opportunity. Inequality, on the other hand, would be more likely
to demotivate people because they would know that the odds of success were
stacked in favour of those from privileged backgrounds.
In conclusion, it seems to me that there is a positive relationship between
equality and personal success.
(260 words)
Note:
I'm not sure that this was a 'real' IELTS question (maybe the student who sent it
to me remembered it wrongly) because it is a bit confusing: it seems strange to
me to imply that "egalitarian/equality" is the opposite of "free to succeed or fail".
Anyway, I hope you still find the essay useful.
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Wednesday, November 16, 2011
IELTS Writing Task 2: discussion without opinion
Most discussion essays also ask for your opinion. Sometimes, however,
the question doesn't ask for your opinion. It might just ask you to discuss
two different views, or compare the advantages and disadvantages.
Remember: if the question doesn't ask for your opinion, don't give it.
Compare the 2 essays attached below. They are almost the same, but in
the first essay I give my opinion clearly in several places, while in the
second essay I've removed my opinions completely.
Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best
route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to
get a job straight after school.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

When they finish school, teenagers face the dilemma of whether to get a job
or continue their education. While there are benefits to getting a job straight
after school, I would argue that it is better to go to college or university.

The option to start work straight after school is attractive for several reasons.
Many young people want to start earning money as soon as possible. In this
way, they can become independent, and they will be able to afford their own
house or start a family. In terms of their career, young people who decide to
find work, rather than continue their studies, may progress more quickly. They
will have the chance to gain real experience and learn practical skills related
to their chosen profession. This may lead to promotions and a successful
career.

On the other hand, I believe that it is more beneficial for students to continue
their studies. Firstly, academic qualifications are required in many
professions. For example, it is impossible to become a doctor, teacher or
lawyer without having the relevant degree. As a result, university graduates
have access to more and better job opportunities, and they tend to earn
higher salaries than those with fewer qualifications. Secondly, the job market
is becoming increasingly competitive, and sometimes there are hundreds of
applicants for one position in a company. Young people who do not have
qualifications from a university or college will not be able to compete.

For the reasons mentioned above, it seems to me that students are more
likely to be successful in their careers if they continue their studies beyond
school level.

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Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best
route to a successful
career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after
school.
Discuss both views.

When they finish school, teenagers face the dilemma of whether to get a
job or continue their education. While there are benefits to getting a job
straight after school, there are also good reasons why it might be beneficial
to go to college or university.

The option to start work straight after school is attractive for several
reasons. Many young people want to start earning money as soon as
possible. In this way, they can become independent, and they will be able
to afford their own house or start a family. In terms of their career, young
people who decide to find work, rather than continue their studies, may
progress more quickly. They will have the chance to gain real experience
and learn practical skills related to their chosen profession. This may lead
to promotions and a successful career.

On the other hand, it is also understandable that many students choose to

continue their studies. Firstly, academic qualifications are required in many
professions. For example, it is impossible to become a doctor, teacher or
lawyer without having the relevant degree. As a result, university
graduates have access to more and better job opportunities, and they tend
to earn higher salaries than those with fewer qualifications. Secondly, the
job market is becoming increasingly competitive, and sometimes there are
hundreds of applicants for one position in a company. Young people who
do not have qualifications from a university or college may not be able to
compete.

In conclusion, there are convincing arguments for starting work straight

after school, but higher education can also lead to a successful career.

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Wednesday, December 07, 2011
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'help' essay
Last week I wrote a plan for the question below. Now you can read my full
essay.
We cannot help everyone in the world that needs help, so we should
only be concerned with our own communities and countries.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Some people believe that we should not help people in other countries as
long as there are problems in our own society. I disagree with this view
because I believe that we should try to help as many people as possible.
On the one hand, I accept that it is important to help our neighbours and
fellow citizens. In most communities there are people who are
impoverished or disadvantaged in some way. It is possible to find
homeless people, for example, in even the wealthiest of cities, and for
those who are concerned about this problem, there are usually
opportunities to volunteer time or give money to support these people. In
the UK, people can help in a variety of ways, from donating clothing to
serving free food in a soup kitchen. As the problems are on our doorstep,
and there are obvious ways to help, I can understand why some people
feel that we should prioritise local charity.
At the same time, I believe that we have an obligation to help those who
live beyond our national borders. In some countries the problems that
people face are much more serious than those in our own communities,
and it is often even easier to help. For example, when children are dying
from curable diseases in African countries, governments and individuals in
richer countries can save lives simply by paying for vaccines that already
exist. A small donation to an international charity might have a much
greater impact than helping in our local area.
In conclusion, it is true that we cannot help everyone, but in my opinion
national boundaries should not stop us from helping those who are in
need.
(280 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, January 25, 2012
IELTS Writing Task 2: full essay
Many people decide on a career path early in their lives and keep to it.
This, they argue, leads to a more satisfying working life.
To what extent do you agree with this view?
What other things can people do in order to have a satisfying working
life?
It is true that some people know from an early age what career they want to
pursue, and they are happy to spend the rest of their lives in the same
profession. While I accept that this may suit many people, I believe that others
enjoy changing careers or seeking job satisfaction in different ways.

On the one hand, having a defined career path can certainly lead to a satisfying
working life. Many people decide as young children what they want to do as
adults, and it gives them a great sense of satisfaction to work towards their
goals and gradually achieve them. For example, many children dream of
becoming doctors, but to realise this ambition they need to gain the relevant
qualifications and undertake years of training. In my experience, very few
people who have qualified as doctors choose to change career because they
find their work so rewarding, and because they have invested so much time and
effort to reach their goal.

On the other hand, people find happiness in their working lives in different
ways. Firstly, not everyone dreams of doing a particular job, and it can be
equally rewarding to try a variety of professions; starting out on a completely
new career path can be reinvigorating experience. Secondly, some people see
their jobs as simply a means of earning money, and they are happy if their
salary is high enough to allow them to enjoy life outside work. Finally, job
satisfaction is often the result of working conditions, rather than the career itself.
For example, a positive working atmosphere, enthusiastic colleagues, and an
inspirational boss can make working life much more satisfying, regardless of the
profession.

In conclusion, it can certainly be satisfying to pursue a particular career for the

whole of one’s life, but this is by no means the only route to fulfilment.
(310 words)
Note: I went a bit "over the top" with this essay. It's 310 words long, and more than good enough
for band 9. You might not be able to write like this, but hopefully you can learn something from it.
(go over the top: to do something that is more than what is considered normal or suitable)
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Wednesday, February 29, 2012
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'technology' essay
Several people have asked me about this question from Cambridge IELTS
8. I wrote the essay below with the help of some of my students. A few
simple linking features are highlighted.
Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed
because of technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships that
people make? Has this been a positive or negative development?
It is true that new technologies have had an influence on communication
between people. Technology has affected relationships in various ways,
and in my opinion there are both positive and negative effects.
Technology has had an impact on relationships in business, education and
social life. Firstly, telephones and the Internet allow business people in
different countries to interact without ever meeting each other. Secondly,
services like Skype create new possibilities for relationships between
students and teachers. For example, a student can now take video lessons
with a teacher in a different city or country. Finally, many people use social
networks, like Facebook, to make new friends and find people who share
common interests, and they interact through their computers rather than
face to face.
On the one hand, these developments can be extremely positive.
Cooperation between people in different countries was much more difficult
when communication was limited to written letters or telegrams.
Nowadays, interactions by email, phone or video are almost as good as
face-to-face meetings, and many of us benefit from these interactions,
either in work or social contexts. On the other hand, the availability of new
communication technologies can also have the result of isolating people
and discouraging real interaction. For example, many young people
choose to make friends online rather than mixing with their peers in the
real world, and these ‘virtual’ relationships are a poor substitute for real
friendships.
In conclusion, technology has certainly revolutionised communication
between people, but not all of the outcomes of this revolution have been
positive.
(257 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, April 25, 2012
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'hobbies' essay
I wrote the following essay with some of my students. We tried to keep it
clear, concise and well-organised, but it's still good enough for a band 9.
Some people believe that hobbies need to be difficult to be enjoyable.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some hobbies are relatively easy, while others present more of a
challenge. Personally, I believe that both types of hobby can be fun, and I
therefore disagree with the statement that hobbies need to be difficult in
order to be enjoyable.
On the one hand, many people enjoy easy hobbies. One example of an
activity that is easy for most people is swimming. This hobby requires very
little equipment, it is simple to learn, and it is inexpensive. I remember
learning to swim at my local swimming pool when I was a child, and it
never felt like a demanding or challenging experience. Another hobby that I
find easy and fun is photography. In my opinion, anyone can take
interesting pictures without knowing too much about the technicalities of
operating a camera. Despite being straightforward, taking photos is a
satisfying activity.
On the other hand, difficult hobbies can sometimes be more exciting. If an
activity is more challenging, we might feel a greater sense of satisfaction
when we manage to do it successfully. For example, film editing is a hobby
that requires a high level of knowledge and expertise. In my case, it took
me around two years before I became competent at this activity, but now I
enjoy it much more than I did when I started. I believe that many hobbies
give us more pleasure when we reach a higher level of performance
because the results are better and the feeling of achievement is greater.
In conclusion, simple hobbies can be fun and relaxing, but difficult hobbies
can be equally pleasurable for different reasons.
Note:
Notice that we used examples as the basis of both main paragraphs.
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Wednesday, June 27, 2012
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'unpaid work' essay
Some people think that all teenagers should be required to do
unpaid work in their free time to help the local community. They
believe this would benefit both the individual teenager and
society as a whole.
Do you agree or disagree?
Many young people work on a volunteer basis, and this can only be
beneficial for both the individual and society as a whole. However, I do not
agree that we should therefore force all teenagers to do unpaid work.
Most young people are already under enough pressure with their studies,
without being given the added responsibility of working in their spare time.
School is just as demanding as a full-time job, and teachers expect their
students to do homework and exam revision on top of attending lessons
every day. When young people do have some free time, we should
encourage them to enjoy it with their friends or to spend it doing sports and
other leisure activities. They have many years of work ahead of them when
they finish their studies.
At the same time, I do not believe that society has anything to gain from
obliging young people to do unpaid work. In fact, I would argue that it goes
against the values of a free and fair society to force a group of people to do
something against their will. Doing this can only lead to resentment
amongst young people, who would feel that they were being used, and
parents, who would not want to be told how to raise their children.
Currently, nobody is forced to volunteer, and this is surely the best system.
In conclusion, teenagers may choose to work for free and help others, but
in my opinion we should not make this compulsory.
(250 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, October 10, 2012
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'music' essay
There are many different types of music in the world today. Why do
we need music? Is the traditional music of a country more important
than the international music that is heard everywhere nowadays?
It is true that a rich variety of musical styles can be found around the world.
Music is a vital part of all human cultures for a range of reasons, and I
would argue that traditional music is more important than modern,
international music.
Music is something that accompanies all of us throughout our lives. As
children, we are taught songs by our parents and teachers as a means of
learning language, or simply as a form of enjoyment. Children delight in
singing with others, and it would appear that the act of singing in a group
creates a connection between participants, regardless of their age. Later in
life, people’s musical preferences develop, and we come to see our
favourite songs as part of our life stories. Music both expresses and
arouses emotions in a way that words alone cannot. In short, it is difficult to
imagine life without it.
In my opinion, traditional music should be valued over the international
music that has become so popular. International pop music is often catchy
and fun, but it is essentially a commercial product that is marketed and
sold by business people. Traditional music, by contrast, expresses the
culture, customs and history of a country. Traditional styles, such as
...(example)..., connect us to the past and form part of our cultural identity.
It would be a real pity if pop music became so predominant that these
national styles disappeared.
In conclusion, music is a necessary part of human existence, and I believe
that traditional music should be given more importance than international
music.
(261 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, December 12, 2012
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'video games' essay
Some people regard video games as harmless fun, or even as a
useful educational tool. Others, however, believe that videos games
are having an adverse effect on the people who play them. In your
opinion, do the drawbacks of video games outweigh the benefits?
Many people, and children in particular, enjoy playing computer games.
While I accept that these games can sometimes have a positive effect on
the user, I believe that they are more likely to have a harmful impact.
On the one hand, video games can be both entertaining and educational.
Users, or gamers, are transported into virtual worlds which are often more
exciting and engaging than real-life pastimes. From an educational
perspective, these games encourage imagination and creativity, as well as
concentration, logical thinking and problem solving, all of which are useful
skills outside the gaming context. Furthermore, it has been shown that
computer simulation games can improve users’ motor skills and help to
prepare them for real-world tasks, such as flying a plane.
However, I would argue that these benefits are outweighed by the
drawbacks. Gaming can be highly addictive because users are constantly
given scores, new targets and frequent rewards to keep them playing.
Many children now spend hours each day trying to progress through the
levels of a game or to get a higher score than their friends. This type of
addiction can have effects ranging from lack of sleep to problems at
school, when homework is sacrificed for a few more hours on the computer
or console. The rise in obesity in recent years has also been linked in part
to the sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise that often accompany
gaming addiction.
In conclusion, it seems to me that the potential dangers of video games
are more significant than the possible benefits.
(258 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, January 30, 2013
IELTS Writing Task 2: problem/solution essay
Here's my full essay for the question we've been working on.
In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What
problems will this cause for individuals and society? Suggest some
measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing
populations.
It is true that people in industrialised nations can expect to live longer than
ever before. Although there will undoubtedly be some negative
consequences of this trend, societies can take steps to mitigate these
potential problems.
As people live longer and the populations of developed countries grow
older, several related problems can be anticipated. The main issue is that
there will obviously be more people of retirement age who will be eligible to
receive a pension. The proportion of younger, working adults will be
smaller, and governments will therefore receive less money in taxes in
relation to the size of the population. In other words, an ageing population
will mean a greater tax burden for working adults. Further pressures will
include a rise in the demand for healthcare, and the fact young adults will
increasingly have to look after their elderly relatives.
There are several actions that governments could take to solve the
problems described above. Firstly, a simple solution would be to increase
the retirement age for working adults, perhaps from 65 to 70. Nowadays,
people of this age tend to be healthy enough to continue a productive
working life. A second measure would be for governments to encourage
immigration in order to increase the number of working adults who pay
taxes. Finally, money from national budgets will need to be taken from
other areas and spent on vital healthcare, accommodation and transport
facilities for the rising numbers of older citizens.
In conclusion, various measures can be taken to tackle the problems that
are certain to arise as the populations of countries grow older.
(265 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, June 26, 2013
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'animal testing' essay
Nowadays animal experiments are widely used to develop new
medicines and to test the safety of other products. Some people
argue that these experiments should be banned because it is morally
wrong to cause animals to suffer, while others are in favour of them
because of their benefits to humanity.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
It is true that medicines and other products are routinely tested on animals
before they are cleared for human use. While I tend towards the viewpoint
that animal testing is morally wrong, I would have to support a limited
amount of animal experimentation for the development of medicines.
On the one hand, there are clear ethical arguments against animal
experimentation. To use a common example of this practice, laboratory
mice may be given an illness so that the effectiveness of a new drug can
be measured. Opponents of such research argue that humans have no
right to subject animals to this kind of trauma, and that the lives of all
creatures should be respected. They believe that the benefits to humans
do not justify the suffering caused, and that scientists should use
alternative methods of research.
On the other hand, reliable alternatives to animal experimentation may not
always be available. Supporters of the use of animals in medical research
believe that a certain amount of suffering on the part of mice or rats can be
justified if human lives are saved. They argue that opponents of such
research might feel differently if a member of their own families needed a
medical treatment that had been developed through the use of animal
experimentation. Personally, I agree with the banning of animal testing for
non-medical products, but I feel that it may be a necessary evil where new
drugs and medical procedures are concerned.
In conclusion, it seems to me that it would be wrong to ban testing on
animals for vital medical research until equally effective alternatives have
been developed.
(270 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, August 07, 2013
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'artists' essay
Here's a full essay that I wrote with my students about the topic below.
Some people think that governments should give financial support to
creative artists such as painters and musicians. Others believe that
creative artists should be funded by alternative sources. Discuss
both views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about the funding of creative artists. While
some people disagree with the idea of government support for artists, I
believe that money for art projects should come from both governments
and other sources.
Some art projects definitely require help from the state. In the UK, there
are many works of art in public spaces, such as streets or squares in city
centres. In Liverpool, for example, there are several new statues and
sculptures in the docks area of the city, which has been redeveloped
recently. These artworks represent culture, heritage and history. They
serve to educate people about the city, and act as landmarks or talking
points for visitors and tourists. Governments and local councils should pay
creative artists to produce this kind of art, because without their funding
our cities would be much less interesting and attractive.
On the other hand, I can understand the arguments against government
funding for art. The main reason for this view is that governments have
more important concerns. For example, state budgets need to be spent on
education, healthcare, infrastructure and security, among other areas.
These public services are vital for a country to function properly, whereas
the work of creative artists, even in public places, is a luxury. Another
reason for this opinion is that artists do a job like any other professional,
and they should therefore earn their own money by selling their work.
In conclusion, there are good reasons why artists should rely on alternative
sources of financial support, but in my opinion government help is
sometimes necessary.
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Wednesday, November 20, 2013
IELTS Writing Task 2: full essay
Today I'm attaching a model essay for the 'economic success' question that
we were looking at a few weeks ago. The question is what I call a "2-part
question", and I simply wrote one main paragraph about each of the two
parts.
Economic progress is often used to measure a country's success.
However, some people believe that other factors are more important.
What other factors should also be considered when measuring a
country's success? Do you think one factor is more important than
others?

The relative success of different countries is usually defined in economic terms.

There are several other factors, apart from the economy, that could be used to
assess a country, and in my opinion education is the most important of all.

Standards of education, health and individual human rights should certainly be

considered when measuring a country’s status. A good education system is vital
for the development of any nation, with schools, colleges and universities bearing
the responsibility for the quality of future generations of workers. Healthcare
provision is also an indicator of the standard of living within a country, and this
can be measured by looking at average life expectancy rates or availability of
medical services. Finally, human rights and levels of equality could be taken into
account. For example, a country in which women do not have the same
opportunities as men might be considered less successful than a country with
better gender equality.

In my view, a country’s education system should be seen as the most important

indicator of its success and level of development. This is because education has
a considerable effect on the other two factors mentioned above. It affects
people’s health in the sense that doctors and nurses need to be trained, and
scientists need to be educated to the highest levels before they can carry out
medical research. It also affects the economy in the sense that a well-educated
workforce will allow a variety of companies and industries to flourish, leading to
trade with other countries, and increased wealth.

In conclusion, nations can be assessed and compared in a variety of ways, but I

would argue that the standard of a country's education system is the best
measure of its success.

(288 words, band 9)

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Wednesday, December 11, 2013
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'foreign tourists' essay
Foreign visitors should pay more than local visitors for cultural and
historical attractions. To what extent do you agree or disagree with
this opinion?
It is sometimes argued that tourists from overseas should be charged more
than local residents to visit important sites and monuments. I completely
disagree with this idea.
The argument in favour of higher prices for foreign tourists would be that
cultural or historical attractions often depend on state subsidies to keep
them going, which means that the resident population already pays money
to these sites through the tax system. However, I believe this to be a very
shortsighted view. Foreign tourists contribute to the economy of the host
country with the money they spend on a wide range of goods and services,
including food, souvenirs, accommodation and travel. The governments
and inhabitants of every country should be happy to subsidise important
tourist sites and encourage people from the rest of the world to visit them.
If travellers realised that they would have to pay more to visit historical and
cultural attractions in a particular nation, they would perhaps decide not to
go to that country on holiday. To take the UK as an example, the tourism
industry and many related jobs rely on visitors coming to the country to see
places like Windsor Castle or Saint Paul’s Cathedral. These two sites
charge the same price regardless of nationality, and this helps to promote
the nation’s cultural heritage. If overseas tourists stopped coming due to
higher prices, there would be a risk of insufficient funding for the
maintenance of these important buildings.
In conclusion, I believe that every effort should be made to attract tourists
from overseas, and it would be counterproductive to make them pay more
than local residents.
(269 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, March 26, 2014
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'independence' question
Some people think that in the modern world we are more dependent
on each other, while others think that people have become more
independent.
 Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about whether we are more or less dependent
on others nowadays. In my view, modern life forces us to be more
independent than people were in the past.
There are two main reasons why it could be argued that we are more
dependent on each other now. Firstly, life is more complex and difficult,
especially because the cost of living has increased so dramatically. For
example, young adults tend to rely on their parents for help when buying a
house. Property prices are higher than ever, and without help it would be
impossible for many people to pay a deposit and a mortgage. Secondly,
people seem to be more ambitious nowadays, and they want a better
quality of life for their families. This means that both parents usually need
to work full-time, and they depend on support from grandparents and
babysitters for child care.
However, I would agree with those who believe that people are more
independent these days. In most countries, families are becoming smaller
and more dispersed, which means that people cannot count on relatives as
much as they used to. We also have more freedom to travel and live far
away from our home towns. For example, many students choose to study
abroad instead of going to their local university, and this experience makes
them more independent as they learn to live alone. Another factor in this
growing independence is technology, which allows us to work alone and
from any part of the world.
In conclusion, while there are some reasons to believe that people now
depend on each other more, my own view is that we are more independent
than ever.
Note:
As usual, try to analyse this essay in terms of task response (does it fully
answer the question?), organisation, 'band 7-9' vocabulary, and grammar.
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Wednesday, April 30, 2014
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'salary' essay
When choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many people choose their jobs based on the size of the salary offered.
Personally, I disagree with the idea that money is the key consideration
when deciding on a career, because I believe that other factors are equally
important.
On the one hand, I agree that money is necessary in order for people to
meet their basic needs. For example, we all need money to pay for
housing, food, bills, health care, and education. Most people consider it a
priority to at least earn a salary that allows them to cover these needs and
have a reasonable quality of life. If people chose their jobs based on
enjoyment or other non-financial factors, they might find it difficult to
support themselves. Artists and musicians, for instance, are known for
choosing a career path that they love, but that does not always provide
them with enough money to live comfortably and raise a family.
Nevertheless, I believe that other considerations are just as important as
what we earn in our jobs. Firstly, personal relationships and the
atmosphere in a workplace are extremely important when choosing a job.
Having a good manager or friendly colleagues, for example, can make a
huge difference to workers’ levels of happiness and general quality of life.
Secondly, many people’s feelings of job satisfaction come from their
professional achievements, the skills they learn, and the position they
reach, rather than the money they earn. Finally, some people choose a
career because they want to help others and contribute something positive
to society.
In conclusion, while salaries certainly affect people’s choice of profession, I
do not believe that money outweighs all other motivators.
(275 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, May 28, 2014
IELTS Writing Task 2: add your own conclusion
In the essay below, the conclusion is missing. Can you suggest one?
Remember to keep it short and simple. Don't add any new information; just
repeat or summarise your answer.
Nowadays celebrities are more famous for their glamour and wealth
than for their achievements, and this sets a bad example to young
people.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
It is true that some celebrities are known for their glamorous lifestyles
rather than for the work they do. While I agree that these celebrities set a
bad example for children, I believe that other famous people act as positive
role models.
On the one hand, many people do achieve fame without really working for
it. They may have inherited money from parents, married a famous or
wealthy person, or they may have appeared in gossip magazines or on a
reality TV programme. A good example would be Paris Hilton, who is rich
and famous for the wrong reasons. She spends her time attending parties
and nightclubs, and her behaviour promotes the idea that appearance,
glamour and media profile are more important than hard work and good
character. The message to young people is that success can be achieved
easily, and that school work is not necessary.
On the other hand, there are at least as many celebrities whose
accomplishments make them excellent role models for young people.
Actors, musicians and sports stars become famous idols because they
have worked hard and applied themselves to develop real skills and
abilities. They demonstrate great effort, determination and ambition, which
is required for someone who wants to be truly successful in their chosen
field. An example is the actor and martial artist Jackie Chan, who has
become world famous through years of practice and hard work. This kind
of self-made celebrity can inspire children to develop their talents through
application and perseverance.
In conclusion, it seems to me that the influence of celebrities on young
people can be positive as well as negative.

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Wednesday, September 17, 2014
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'happiness' essay
Here's my full essay for the question below.
Happiness is considered very important in life.
Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness?
It is no doubt true that the majority of people would like to be happy in their
lives. While the personal nature of happiness makes it difficult to describe,
there do seem to be some common needs that we all share with regard to
experiencing or achieving happiness.
Happiness is difficult to define because it means something different to
each individual person. Nobody can fully understand or experience another
person’s feelings, and we all have our own particular passions from which
we take pleasure. Some people, for example, derive a sense of
satisfaction from earning money or achieving success, whereas for others,
health and family are much more important. At the same time, a range of
other feelings, from excitement to peacefulness, may be associated with
the idea of happiness, and the same person may therefore feel happy in a
variety of different ways.
Although it seems almost impossible to give a precise definition of
happiness, most people would agree that there are some basic
preconditions to achieving it. Firstly, it is hard for a person to be happy if he
or she does not have a safe place to live and enough food to eat. Our
basic survival needs must surely be met before we can lead a pleasant life.
Secondly, the greatest joy in life is usually found in shared experiences
with family and friends, and it is rare to find a person who is content to live
in complete isolation. Other key factors could be individual freedom and a
sense of purpose in life.
In conclusion, happiness is difficult to define because it is particular to
each individual, but I believe that our basic needs for shelter, food and
company need to be fulfilled before we can experience it.
(292 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, January 07, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'wild animals' essay
Wild animals have no place in the 21st century, so protecting them is
a waste of resources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people argue that it is pointless to spend money on the protection of
wild animals because we humans have no need for them. I completely
disagree with this point of view.
In my opinion, it is absurd to argue that wild animals have no place in the
21st century. I do not believe that planet Earth exists only for the benefit of
humans, and there is nothing special about this particular century that
means that we suddenly have the right to allow or encourage the extinction
of any species. Furthermore, there is no compelling reason why we should
let animals die out. We do not need to exploit or destroy every last square
metre of land in order to feed or accommodate the world’s population.
There is plenty of room for us to exist side by side with wild animals, and
this should be our aim.
I also disagree with the idea that protecting animals is a waste of
resources. It is usually the protection of natural habitats that ensures the
survival of wild animals, and most scientists agree that these habitats are
also crucial for human survival. For example, rainforests produce oxygen,
absorb carbon dioxide and stabilise the Earth’s climate. If we destroyed
these areas, the costs of managing the resulting changes to our planet
would far outweigh the costs of conservation. By protecting wild animals
and their habitats, we maintain the natural balance of all life on Earth.
In conclusion, we have no right to decide whether or not wild animals
should exist, and I believe that we should do everything we can to protect
them.
(269 words, band 9)
Note:
I've highlighted my main paragraph 'topic sentences' in blue. Can you see
how each topic sentence relates to one part of the question?
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Wednesday, March 25, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'parental roles' essay
These days more fathers stay at home and take care of their children
while mothers go out to work. What could be the reasons for this? Do
you think it is a positive or a negative development?
It is true that men are increasingly likely to take on the role of
househusband, while more women than ever are the breadwinners in their
families. There could be several reasons for this, and I consider it to be a
very positive trend.
In recent years, parents have had to adapt to various changes in our
societies. Equal rights movements have made great progress, and it has
become normal for women to gain qualifications and pursue a career. It
has also become socially acceptable for men to stay at home and look
after their children. At the same time, the rising cost of living has meant
that both marriage partners usually need to work and save money before
starting a family. Therefore, when couples have children, they may decide
who works and who stays at home depending on the personal preference
of each partner, or based on which partner earns the most money.
In my view, the changes described above should be seen as progress. We
should be happy to live in a society in which men and women have equal
opportunities, and in which women are not put under pressure to sacrifice
their careers. Equally, it seems only fair that men should be free to leave
their jobs in order to assume childcare responsibilities if this is what they
wish to do. Couples should be left to make their own decisions about which
parental role each partner takes, according to their particular
circumstances and needs.
In conclusion, the changing roles of men and women in the family are a
result of wider changes in society, and I believe that these developments
are desirable.
(274 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, May 06, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'road safety' essay
Here's the full essay that I wrote with my students for the question below.
Some people think that strict punishments for driving offences are
the key to reducing traffic accidents. Others, however, believe that
other measures would be more effective in improving road safety.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
People have differing views with regard to the question of how to make our
roads safer. In my view, both punishments and a range of other measures
can be used together to promote better driving habits.
On the one hand, strict punishments can certainly help to encourage
people to drive more safely. Penalties for dangerous drivers can act as a
deterrent, meaning that people avoid repeating the same offence. There
are various types of driving penalty, such as small fines, licence
suspension, driver awareness courses, and even prison sentences. The
aim of these punishments is to show dangerous drivers that their actions
have negative consequences. As a result, we would hope that drivers
become more disciplined and alert, and that they follow the rules more
carefully.
On the other hand, I believe that safe driving can be promoted in several
different ways that do not punish drivers. Firstly, it is vitally important to
educate people properly before they start to drive, and this could be done
in schools or even as part of an extended or more difficult driving test.
Secondly, more attention could be paid to safe road design. For example,
signs can be used to warn people, speed bumps and road bends can be
added to calm traffic, and speed cameras can help to deter people from
driving too quickly. Finally, governments or local councils could reduce
road accidents by investing in better public transport, which would mean
that fewer people would need to travel by car.
In conclusion, while punishments can help to prevent bad driving, I believe
that other road safety measures should also be introduced.
(269 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, June 24, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'foreign films' essay
Here's my full essay for the question that we've been working on recently.
Many people prefer to watch foreign films rather than locally
produced films. Why could this be?
Should governments give more financial support to local film
industries?
It is true that foreign films are more popular in many countries than domestically
produced films. There could be several reasons why this is the case, and I
believe that governments should promote local film-making by subsidising the
industry.
There are various reasons why many people find foreign films more enjoyable
than the films produced in their own countries. Firstly, the established film
industries in certain countries have huge budgets for action, special effects and
to shoot scenes in spectacular locations. Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Avatar’ or
the James Bond films are examples of such productions, and their global appeal
is undeniable. Another reason why these big-budget films are so successful is
that they often star the most famous actors and actresses, and they are made by
the most accomplished producers and directors. The poor quality, low-budget
filmmaking in many countries suffers in comparison.
In my view, governments should support local film industries financially. In every
country, there may be talented amateur film-makers who just need to be given
the opportunity to prove themselves. To compete with big-budget productions
from overseas, these people need money to pay for film crews, actors and a host
of other costs related to producing high-quality films. If governments did help with
these costs, they would see an increase in employment in the film industry,
income from film sales, and perhaps even a rise in tourist numbers. New
Zealand, for example, has seen an increase in tourism related to the 'Lord of the
Rings' films, which were partly funded by government subsidies.
In conclusion, I believe that increased financial support could help to raise the
quality of locally made films and allow them to compete with the foreign
productions that currently dominate the market.
(294 words, band 9)
Note:
I'm not really sure whether the New Zealand example is true, but it's fine to invent this
kind of thing in the test!
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Wednesday, August 05, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'traditional views' essay
Here's my full essay for the following question.
The older generations tend to have very traditional ideas about how
people should live, think and behave. However, some people believe
that these ideas are not helpful in preparing younger generations for
modern life.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
It is true that many older people believe in traditional values that often
seem incompatible with the needs of younger people. While I agree that
some traditional ideas are outdated, I believe that others are still useful
and should not be forgotten.
On the one hand, many of the ideas that elderly people have about life are
becoming less relevant for younger people. In the past, for example,
people were advised to learn a profession and find a secure job for life, but
today’s workers expect much more variety and diversity from their careers.
At the same time, the ‘rules’ around relationships are being eroded as
young adults make their own choices about who and when to marry. But
perhaps the greatest disparity between the generations can be seen in
their attitudes towards gender roles. The traditional roles of men and
women, as breadwinners and housewives, are no longer accepted as
necessary or appropriate by most younger people.
On the other hand, some traditional views and values are certainly
applicable to the modern world. For example, older generations attach
great importance to working hard, doing one’s best, and taking pride in
one’s work, and these behaviours can surely benefit young people as they
enter today’s competitive job market. Other characteristics that are
perhaps seen as traditional are politeness and good manners. In our
globalised world, young adults can expect to come into contact with people
from a huge variety of backgrounds, and it is more important than ever to
treat others with respect. Finally, I believe that young people would lead
happier lives if they had a more ‘old-fashioned’ sense of community and
neighbourliness.
In conclusion, although the views of older people may sometimes seem
unhelpful in today’s world, we should not dismiss all traditional ideas as
irrelevant.
(299 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, September 16, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'strong opinion' essay
Here's my full essay for the "ex-prisoner" topic that we've been looking at
over the last few weeks. Notice that I give only one opinion, and I support it
in each paragraph.
Some people who have been in prison become good citizens later,
and it is often argued that these are the best people to talk to
teenagers about the dangers of committing a crime.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is true that ex-prisoners can become normal, productive members of
society. I completely agree with the idea that allowing such people to
speak to teenagers about their experiences is the best way to discourage
them from breaking the law.
In my opinion, teenagers are more likely to accept advice from someone
who can speak from experience. Reformed offenders can tell young
people about how they became involved in crime, the dangers of a criminal
lifestyle, and what life in prison is really like. They can also dispel any
ideas that teenagers may have about criminals leading glamorous lives.
While adolescents are often indifferent to the guidance given by older
people, I imagine that most of them would be extremely keen to hear the
stories of an ex-offender. The vivid and perhaps shocking nature of these
stories is likely to have a powerful impact.
The alternatives to using reformed criminals to educate teenagers about
crime would be much less effective. One option would be for police officers
to visit schools and talk to young people. This could be useful in terms of
informing teens about what happens to lawbreakers when they are caught,
but young people are often reluctant to take advice from figures of
authority. A second option would be for school teachers to speak to their
students about crime, but I doubt that students would see teachers as
credible sources of information about this topic. Finally, educational films
might be informative, but there would be no opportunity for young people
to interact and ask questions.
In conclusion, I fully support the view that people who have turned their
lives around after serving a prison sentence could help to deter teenagers
from committing crimes.
(287 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, October 21, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'university subjects' essay
Today I'm sharing my full essay for the question below.
Some people think that all university students should study whatever
they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study
subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to
science and technology.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about how much choice students should have
with regard to what they can study at university. While some argue that it
would be better for students to be forced into certain key subject areas, I
believe that everyone should be able to study the course of their choice.
There are various reasons why people believe that universities should only
offer subjects that will be useful in the future. They may assert that
university courses like medicine, engineering and information technology
are more likely to be beneficial than certain art degrees. From a personal
perspective, it can be argued that these courses provide more job
opportunities, career progression, better salaries, and therefore an
improved quality of life for students who take them. On the societal level,
by forcing people to choose particular university subjects, governments
can ensure that any knowledge and skill gaps in the economy are covered.
Finally, a focus on technology in higher education could lead to new
inventions, economic growth, and greater future prosperity.
In spite of these arguments, I believe that university students should be
free to choose their preferred areas of study. In my opinion, society will
benefit more if our students are passionate about what they are learning.
Besides, nobody can really predict which areas of knowledge will be most
useful to society in the future, and it may be that employers begin to value
creative thinking skills above practical or technical skills. If this were the
case, perhaps we would need more students of art, history and philosophy
than of science or technology.
In conclusion, although it might seem sensible for universities to focus only
on the most useful subjects, I personally prefer the current system in which
people have the right to study whatever they like.
(297 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, December 09, 2015
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'positive or negative' essay
Here's my full essay for the 'positive or negative development' question
that we've been looking at over the last few weeks.
In some countries, many more people are choosing to live alone
nowadays than in the past. Do you think this is a positive or negative
development?
In recent years it has become far more normal for people to live alone,
particularly in large cities in the developed world. In my opinion, this trend
could have both positive and negative consequences in equal measure.
The rise in one-person households can be seen as positive for both
personal and broader economic reasons. On an individual level, people
who choose to live alone may become more independent and self-reliant
than those who live with family members. A young adult who lives alone,
for example, will need to learn to cook, clean, pay bills and manage his or
her budget, all of which are valuable life skills; an increase in the number
of such individuals can certainly be seen as a positive development. From
an economic perspective, the trend towards living alone will result in
greater demand for housing. This is likely to benefit the construction
industry, estate agents and a whole host of other companies that rely on
homeowners to buy their products or services.
However, the personal and economic arguments given above can be
considered from the opposite angle. Firstly, rather than the positive feeling
of increased independence, people who live alone may experience
feelings of loneliness, isolation and worry. They miss out on the emotional
support and daily conversation that family or flatmates can provide, and
they must bear the weight of all household bills and responsibilities; in this
sense, perhaps the trend towards living alone is a negative one. Secondly,
from the financial point of view, a rise in demand for housing is likely to
push up property prices and rents. While this may benefit some
businesses, the general population, including those who live alone, will be
faced with rising living costs.
In conclusion, the increase in one-person households will have both
beneficial and detrimental effects on individuals and on the economy.
(306 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, February 10, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'disagree' essay with both sides

Although more and more people read news on the Internet,

newspapers will remain the most important source of news. Do you
agree or disagree?

The Internet is beginning to rival newspapers as the best place to find

information about what is happening in the world. I believe that this trend
will continue, and the Internet will soon be just as important as the
traditional press.

On the one hand, I believe that newspapers will continue to be a vital

source of information, even in the Internet age. Firstly, newspapers are the
most traditional means of communicating the news, and not everyone
wants to or is able to use the Internet instead. For example, old people or
those in rural areas might not have the ability or opportunity to get online,
while many of us simply prefer newspapers even if we do have Internet
access. Secondly, newspapers can be trusted as reliable sources of news
because they employ professional journalists and editors. Finally, many
people like the experience of holding and reading a paper rather than
looking at a computer screen.

However, the Internet is likely to become just as popular as newspapers

for a variety of reasons. The main reason is that it allows us much faster
access to news in real time and wherever we are, on different gadgets and
mobile devices. Another key benefit of online news compared to
newspapers is the ability to share articles, discuss them with other people,
give our views, and even contribute with our own updates on social media.
For example, there has been an explosion in the use of platforms like
Twitter and YouTube where anyone can share their news and views. A
final point is that this source of news is less damaging to the environment.

In conclusion, I disagree with the view that newspapers will continue to be

the main source of news, because I believe that the Internet will soon be
equally important.
(300 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, March 02, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: problem and solution essay
Here's my full sample essay for question below.
More and more people are migrating to cities in search of a better life,
but city life can be extremely difficult. Explain some of the difficulties
of living in a city. How can governments make urban life better for
everyone?
Cities are often seen as places of opportunity, but there are also some
major drawbacks of living in a large metropolis. In my opinion,
governments could do much more to improve city life for the average
inhabitant.
The main problem for anyone who hopes to migrate to a large city is that
the cost of living is likely to be much higher than it is in a small town or
village. Inhabitants of cities have to pay higher prices for housing,
transport, and even food. Another issue is that urban areas tend to suffer
from social problems such as high crime and poverty rates in comparison
with rural areas. Furthermore, the air quality in cities is often poor, due to
pollution from traffic, and the streets and public transport systems are
usually overcrowded. As a result, city life can be unhealthy and stressful.
However, there are various steps that governments could take to tackle
these problems. Firstly, they could invest money in the building of
affordable or social housing to reduce the cost of living. Secondly,
politicians have the power to ban vehicles from city centres and promote
the use of cleaner public transport, which would help to reduce both air
pollution and traffic congestion. In London, for example, the introduction of
a congestion charge for drivers has helped to curb the traffic problem. A
third option would be to develop provincial towns and rural areas, by
moving industry and jobs to those regions, in order to reduce the pressure
on major cities.
In conclusion, governments could certainly implement a range of measures
to enhance the quality of life for all city residents.
(273 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, May 04, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'business responsibilities' essay
Here's my full essay for the question below.
As well as making money, businesses also have social
responsibilities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Businesses have always sought to make a profit, but it is becoming
increasingly common to hear people talk about the social obligations that
companies have. I completely agree with the idea that businesses should
do more for society than simply make money.
On the one hand, I accept that businesses must make money in order to
survive in a competitive world. It seems logical that the priority of any
company should be to cover its running costs, such as employees’ wages
and payments for buildings and utilities. On top of these costs, companies
also need to invest in improvements and innovations if they wish to remain
successful. If a company is unable to pay its bills or meet the changing
needs of customers, any concerns about social responsibilities become
irrelevant. In other words, a company can only make a positive contribution
to society if it is in good financial health.
On the other hand, companies should not be run with the sole aim of
maximising profit; they have a wider role to play in society. One social
obligation that owners and managers have is to treat their employees well,
rather than exploiting them. For example, they could pay a “living wage” to
ensure that workers have a good quality of life. I also like the idea that
businesses could use a proportion of their profits to support local charities,
environmental projects or education initiatives. Finally, instead of trying to
minimise their tax payments by using accounting loopholes, I believe that
company bosses should be happy to contribute to society through the tax
system.
In conclusion, I believe that companies should place as much importance
on their social responsibilities as they do on their financial objectives.
(285 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, July 20, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'economic progress' essay
Here's the full essay that I wrote with my students for the question below.
Many governments think that economic progress is their most
important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of
progress are equally important for a country.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about how governments should measure their
countries’ progress. While economic progress is of course essential, I
agree with those who believe that other measures of progress are just as
important.
There are three key reasons why economic growth is seen as a
fundamental goal for countries. Firstly, a healthy economy results in job
creation, a high level of employment, and better salaries for all citizens.
Secondly, economic progress ensures that more money is available for
governments to spend on infrastructure and public services. For example,
a government with higher revenues can invest in the country's transport
network, its education system and its hospitals. Finally, a strong economy
can help a country’s standing on the global stage, in terms of its political
influence and trading power.
However, I would argue that various other forms of progress are just as
significant as the economic factors mentioned above. In particular, we
should consider the area of social justice, human rights, equality and
democracy itself. For example, the treatment of minority groups is often
seen as a reflection of the moral standards and level of development of a
society. Perhaps another key consideration when judging the progress of a
modern country should be how well that country protects the natural
environment, and whether it is moving towards environmental
sustainability. Alternatively, the success of a nation could be measured by
looking at the health, well-being and happiness of its residents.
In conclusion, the economy is obviously a key marker of a country’s
success, but social, environmental and health criteria are equally
significant.
(262 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, September 07, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: climate change essay
Here's my full essay for the question that we've been looking at in recent
weeks (see below). It's a bit longer than necessary, but I decided not to cut
it down.
Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we
need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
Climate change represents a major threat to life on Earth, but some people
argue that we need to accept it rather than try to stop it. I completely
disagree with this opinion, because I believe that we still have time to
tackle this issue and reduce the human impact on the Earth's climate.
There are various measures that governments and individuals could take
to prevent, or at least mitigate, climate change. Governments could
introduce laws to limit the carbon dioxide emissions that lead to global
warming. They could impose “green taxes” on drivers, airline companies
and other polluters, and they could invest in renewable energy production
from solar, wind or water power. As individuals, we should also try to limit
our contribution to climate change, by becoming more energy efficient, by
flying less, and by using bicycles and public transport. Furthermore, the
public can affect the actions of governments by voting for politicians who
propose to tackle climate change, rather than for those who would prefer to
ignore it.
If instead of taking the above measures we simply try to live with climate
change, I believe that the consequences will be disastrous. To give just
one example, I am not optimistic that we would be able to cope with even a
small rise in sea levels. Millions of people would be displaced by flooding,
particularly in countries that do not have the means to safeguard low-lying
areas. These people would lose their homes and their jobs, and they would
be forced to migrate to nearby cities or perhaps to other countries. The
potential for human suffering would be huge, and it is likely that we would
see outbreaks of disease and famine, as well as increased homelessness
and poverty.
In conclusion, it is clear to me that we must address the problem of climate
change, and I disagree with those who argue that we can find ways to live
with it.
(322 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, October 12, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'high salaries' essay
Here's a full essay that I wrote with my students for the question below.
In many countries, a small number of people earn extremely high
salaries. Some people believe that this is good for the country, but
others think that governments should not allow salaries above a
certain level.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about whether governments should introduce
a maximum wage. While in some ways it may seem reasonable to allow
people to earn as much as companies are willing to pay, I personally
believe that employee remuneration should be capped at a certain level.
There are various reasons why it might be considered beneficial to allow
people to be paid extremely high salaries. If companies offer excellent pay
packages, they can attract the most talented people in their fields to work
for them. For example, technology companies like Google are able to
employ the best programmers because of the huge sums that they are
willing to pay. Furthermore, these well-paid employees are likely to be
highly motivated to work hard and therefore drive their businesses
successfully. In theory, this should result in a thriving economy and
increased tax revenues, which means that paying high salaries benefits
everyone.
However, I agree with those who argue that there should be a maximum
wage. By introducing a limit on earnings, the pay-gap between bosses and
employees can be reduced. Currently, the difference between normal and
top salaries is huge, and this can demotivate workers who feel that the
situation is unfair. With lower executive salaries, it might become feasible
to introduce higher minimum wages, and everybody would be better off.
One possible consequence of greater equality could be that poverty and
crime rates fall because the general population will experience an
improved standard of living.
In conclusion, it seems to me that it would be better, on balance, for
governments to set a limit on the wages of the highest earners in society.
(274 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, November 02, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: suggest your conclusion
Can you suggest an appropriate conclusion to finish my essay below?
Extreme sports such as sky diving and skiing are very dangerous
and should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree with
this view?
In recent years, extreme sports have become increasingly popular, and
some people argue that governments should prohibit them. I completely
disagree with the idea that these sports are too dangerous, and I therefore
believe that they should not be banned.
In my opinion, so-called extreme sports are not as dangerous as many
people think. All sports involve some element of risk, and there should
always be clear regulations and safety procedures to reduce the possibility
of accidents. People who take part in extreme sports are usually required
to undergo appropriate training so that the dangers are minimised. For
example, anyone who wants to try skydiving will need to sign up for
lessons with a registered club, and beginners are not allowed to dive solo;
they must be accompanied by an experienced professional. Finally, the
protective equipment and technology used in sports from motor racing to
mountain climbing is constantly improving safety.
While I support regulations and safety measures, I believe that it would be
wrong, and almost impossible, to ban extreme sports. In the first place, we
should all be free to decide how we spend our leisure time; as long as we
understand the risks, I do not believe that politicians should stop us from
enjoying ourselves. However, an even stronger argument against such a
ban would be the difficulty of enforcing it. Many of the most risky sports,
like base jumping or big wave surfing, are practised far away from the
reach of any authorities. I cannot imagine the police being called to stop
people from parachuting off a mountain face or surfing on an isolated
beach.
In conclusion, I would argue that people should be free to enjoy extreme
sports as long as they understand the risks and take the appropriate
precautions.

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Wednesday, December 07, 2016
IELTS Writing Task 2: festivals essay
Read the full essay that my students and I wrote for the 'festivals' question
below. Can you highlight the features that help this essay to get a band 9?
Most people have forgotten the meaning behind traditional or
religious festivals; during festival periods, people nowadays only
want to enjoy themselves. To what extent do you agree or disagree
with this opinion?
Some people argue that we no longer remember the original meaning of
festivals, and that most of us treat them as opportunities to have fun. While
I agree that enjoyment seems to be the priority during festival times, I do
not agree that people have forgotten what these festivals mean.
On the one hand, religious and traditional festivals have certainly become
times for celebration. In the UK, Christmas is a good example of a festival
period when people are most concerned with shopping, giving and
receiving presents, decorating their homes and enjoying traditional meals
with their families. Most people look forward to Christmas as a holiday
period, rather than a time to practise religion. Similar behaviour can be
seen during non-religious festivals, such as Bonfire Night. People
associate this occasion with making fires, watching firework displays, and
perhaps going to large events in local parks; in other words, enjoyment is
people’s primary goal.
However, I disagree with the idea that the underlying meaning of such
festivals has been forgotten. In UK primary schools, children learn in detail
about the religious reasons for celebrating Christmas, Easter and a variety
of festivals in other religions. For example, in late December, children sing
Christmas songs which have a religious content, and they may even
perform nativity plays telling the story of Jesus’ birth. Families also play a
role in passing knowledge of religious festivals’ deeper significance on to
the next generation. The same is true for festivals that have a historical
background, such as Bonfire Night or Halloween, in the sense that people
generally learn the stories behind these occasions at an early age.
In conclusion, although people mainly want to enjoy themselves during
festivals, I believe that they are still aware of the reasons for these
celebrations.
(296 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, February 15, 2017
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'traditions and technology' essay
Read my full essay for the question below. I've tried to keep it as concise
as possible, but it's still good enough for a band 9 score.
It is inevitable that traditional cultures will be lost as technology
develops. Technology and traditional cultures are incompatible. To
what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Some people believe that technological developments lead to the loss of
traditional cultures. I partly agree with this assertion; while it may be true in
the case of some societies, others seem to be unaffected by technology
and the modern world.
On the one hand, the advances in technology that have driven
industrialisation in developed countries have certainly contributed to the
disappearance of traditional ways of life. For example, in pre-industrial
Britain, generations of families grew up in the same small village
communities. These communities had a strong sense of identity, due to
their shared customs and beliefs. However, developments in transport,
communications and manufacturing led to the dispersal of families and
village communities as people moved to the cities in search of work.
Nowadays most British villages are inhabited by commuters, many of
whom do not know their closest neighbours.
On the other hand, in some parts of the world traditional cultures still thrive.
There are tribes in the Amazon Rainforest, for example, that have been
completely untouched by the technological developments of the developed
world. These tribal communities continue to hunt and gather food from the
forest, and traditional skills are passed on to children by parents and
elders. Other traditional cultures, such as farming communities in parts of
Africa, are embracing communications technologies. Mobile phones give
farmers access to information, from weather predictions to market prices,
which helps them to prosper and therefore supports their culture.
In conclusion, many traditional ways of life have been lost as a result of
advances in technology, but other traditional communities have survived
and even flourished.
(266 words, band 9)
Note: I'll analyse this essay in another lesson this weekend.
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Wednesday, March 29, 2017
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'positive or negative' essay
Here's my full band 9 essay. I'll analyse it in next week's lesson.
Some universities now offer their courses on the Internet so that
people can study online. Is this a positive or negative development?
It is true that online courses are becoming a common feature of university
education. Although there are some drawbacks of Internet-based learning,
I would argue that there are far more benefits.
The main drawback of the trend towards online university courses is that
there is less direct interaction. Students may not have the opportunity to
engage face-to-face with their teachers, and will instead have to rely on
written forms of communication. Similarly, students who study online do
not come into direct contact with each other, and this could have a
negative impact on peer support, discussion and exchange of ideas. For
example, whereas students on traditional courses can attend seminars and
even discuss their subjects over coffee after lessons, online learners are
restricted to chatting through website forum areas. These learners may
also lack the motivation and element of competition that face-to-face group
work brings.
Despite the negatives mentioned above, I believe that online university
courses are a positive development for various reasons. Firstly, they allow
learners to study in a flexible way, meaning that they can work whenever
and wherever is convenient, and they can cover the material at their own
pace. Secondly, the cost of a university education can be greatly reduced,
while revenues for institutions may increase as more students can be
taught. Finally, online learning offers open access to anybody who is
willing to study, regardless of age, location, ability and background. For
example, my uncle, who is 65 years old, has recently enrolled on an online
MBA course in a different country, which would have been impossible in
the days before Internet-based education.
In conclusion, while I recognise the possible disadvantages of online
learning, I consider it to be a positive development overall.
(288 words)
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Wednesday, June 21, 2017
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'homework' essay
Here's my full essay for the question below.
Some people believe that school children should not be given
homework by their teachers, whereas others argue that homework
plays an important role in the education of children. Discuss both of
these views and give your own opinion.
People’s opinions differ as to whether or not school children should be
given homework. While there are some strong arguments against the
setting of homework, I still believe that it is a necessary aspect of
education.
There are several reasons why people might argue that homework is an
unnecessary burden on children. Firstly, there is evidence to support the
idea that homework does nothing to improve educational outcomes.
Countries such as Finland, where school children are not given homework,
regularly top international educational league tables and outperform
nations where setting homework is the norm. Secondly, many parents
would agree that the school day is already long enough, and leaves their
children too tired to do further study when they return home. Finally, it is
recognised that play time is just as beneficial as study time from the
perspective of brain development.
In spite of the above arguments, I support the view that homework has an
important role to play in the schooling of children. The main benefit of
homework is that it encourages independent learning and problem solving,
as children are challenged to work through tasks alone and at their own
pace. In doing so, students must apply the knowledge that they have learnt
in the classroom. For example, by doing mathematics exercises at home,
students consolidate their understanding of the concepts taught by their
teacher at school. In my view, it is important for children to develop an
independent study habit because this prepares them to work alone as
adults.
In conclusion, homework certainly has its drawbacks, but I believe that the
benefits outweigh them in the long term.
(270 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, August 30, 2017
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'permissive parenting' answer
Here's my full answer to the question below.
Some parents buy their children whatever they ask for, and allow
their children to do whatever they want. Is this a good way to raise
children? What consequences could this style of parenting have for
children as they get older?
It is true that some parents are overly permissive and tend to spoil their
children. In my opinion, this is not a good parenting style, and it can have a
range of negative long-term consequences.
If parents want to raise respectful and well-behaved children, I believe that
a certain amount of discipline is necessary. Having worked with children
myself, I have learnt that clear expectations and boundaries are
necessary, and it is important to be able to say ‘no’ to children when they
misbehave or try to push against these boundaries. This is the only way to
help young people to regulate their desires and develop self-control. In my
view, parents who do the opposite and constantly give in to their children’s
demands, are actually doing more harm than good. They are failing their
children rather than being kind to them.
The children of indulgent or lenient parents are likely to grow up with
several negative personality traits. The first and most obvious danger is
that these children will become self-centred adults who show little
consideration for the feelings or needs of others. One consequence of
such an attitude could be that these adults are unable to work successfully
in teams with other colleagues. A second negative trait in such people
could be impulsiveness. A person who has never lived with any boundaries
is likely to lack the patience to carefully consider options before making
decisions. This may lead, for example, to compulsive shopping, unwise
financial decisions, or even criminal activity.
In conclusion, parents should help their children to develop self-control and
respect for others, and I do not believe that the permissive parenting style
supports this objective.
(283 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, September 27, 2017
IELTS Writing Task 2: CCTV essay
Here's another band 9 sample answer.
In many cities the use of video cameras in public places is being
increased in order to reduce crime, but some people believe that
these measures restrict our individual freedom.
Do the benefits of increased security outweigh the drawbacks?
It is true that video surveillance has become commonplace in many cities
in recent years. While I understand that critics may see this as an invasion
of privacy, I believe that the benefits do outweigh the drawbacks.
There are two main reasons why people might disapprove of the use of
video cameras in public places. The first objection is that these cameras
invade our privacy, in the sense that we are constantly being watched by
the authorities or by private security firms. Many people find this intrusive
and feel that the recording of their movements is a form of state control
that curtails their individual freedom. The second argument against the
proliferation of CCTV cameras is that they are being used as an alternative
to police officers patrolling the streets. If this is indeed happening, then it is
unlikely that members of the public will feel safer.
In spite of the drawbacks mentioned above, I believe that the use of video
cameras to monitor public areas is a positive measure. The key objective
of video surveillance is to deter criminals and to prevent crime. For
example, petty criminals like shoplifters and pickpockets are less likely to
operate in parts of cities where they know that they are being watched. At
the same time, when crimes are committed, the police can use video
evidence to catch and prosecute offenders. Therefore, in my view, video
cameras offer valuable support to police officers, and they make cities
safer for inhabitants, workers and visitors alike.
In conclusion, it seems to me that we gain more than we lose from the
enhanced security that CCTV cameras bring to our cities.
(275 words)
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Wednesday, November 15, 2017
IELTS Writing Task 2: recycling essay
Here's my full sample essay for the recycling topic that we've been working
on.
Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is
recycled. They say that the only way to increase recycling is for
governments to make it a legal requirement.

To what extent do you think laws are needed to make people recycle
more of their waste?
It is true that we do not recycle enough of our household waste. Although I
accept that new legislation to force people to recycle could help this
situation, I do not agree that a recycling law is the only measure that
governments should take.
In my view, a new recycling law would be just one possible way to tackle
the waste problem. Governments could make it a legal obligation for
householders to separate all waste into different bins. There could be
punishments for people who fail to adhere to this law, ranging from a small
fine to community service, or even perhaps prison sentences for repeat
offenders. These measures would act as a deterrent and encourage
people to obey the recycling law. As a result, the improved behaviour of
homeowners could lead to a clean, waste-free environment for everyone.
However, I believe that governments should do more than simply introduce
a recycling law. It might be more effective if politicians put education,
rather than punishment, at the centre of a recycling campaign. For
example, children could be taught about recycling in schools, and
homeowners could be informed about the environmental impact of
household waste. Another tactic that governments could use would be to
create stricter regulations for the companies that produce the packaging
for household products. Finally, money could also be spent to improve
recycling facilities and systems, so that waste is processed more
effectively, regardless of whether or not people separate it correctly in the
home.
In conclusion, perhaps we do need to make recycling a legal requirement,
but this would certainly not be the only way to encourage people to
dispose of their waste more responsibly.

(279 words, band 9)

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Wednesday, May 16, 2018

IELTS Writing Task 2: 'dress code' essay

Here's my full essay for the question that we looked at a couple of weeks ago.
Some people think that employers should not care about the way their
employees dress, because what matters is the quality of their work. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?
In the modern workplace, dress codes are changing as employers focus more on
results than on the rules that employees must follow. While I agree that the way
people dress should be seen as irrelevant in many work contexts, I believe that
dress codes still exist for good reason in certain professions.
On the one hand, many employers have stopped telling their staff how to dress,
and I see this as a positive trend. Some of the most successful companies in the
world, including technology giants like Google and Facebook, are famous for the
relaxed office environments that they try to create. Employees are encouraged to
dress casually, and even the company executives and leaders are rarely seen
wearing anything other than T-shirts and jeans. However, while managers and
programmers are free to dress how they like, they are expected to produce work
of outstanding quality. It is clear from the performance and global dominance of
such companies that strict dress codes are completely unnecessary in the
technology sector.
However, I would also argue that rules regarding employees' clothing are still
relevant in other work situations. We expect certain professionals, such as
nurses, police officers and airline pilots, to wear uniforms. These uniforms may
have a practical or safety function, but perhaps more importantly they identify the
person’s position or role in society. Similarly, a lawyer, politician or school
principal may choose to wear formal clothing in order to portray an image of
authority, trustworthiness and diligence. I believe that most of us prefer to see
these professionals in smart, formal attire, even if it is not strictly necessary.
In conclusion, I support the trend towards relaxed dress codes for workers, but I
do not see it as applicable to all occupations or sectors of the economy.
(298 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, August 08, 2018

IELTS Writing Task 2: 'parenting course' essay

Here's my full essay for the question below.
Caring for children is probably the most important job in any society.
Because of this, all mothers and fathers should be required to take a
course that prepares them to be good parents. To what extent do you agree
or disagree with this view?
It is true that parents shoulder a huge responsibility and that raising children is by
no means an easy task. However, I completely disagree with the idea that we
should therefore force all mothers and fathers to attend parenting courses.
In my opinion, the idea that all future parents should take a parenthood
preparation course is completely impractical. Many prospective parents have
jobs and busy schedules, and they may not be willing or able to attend regular
parenting classes. This raises the question of whether those who missed the
classes, or perhaps refused to attend, would be punished. I believe that it would
be wrong to do this, and it would therefore be impossible to enforce the idea of
compulsory training for parents. Besides, even if parents could be forced to
attend, I doubt that people would agree on what good parenting entails, and so it
would be difficult to create a parenting course to suit everyone.
As well as being impractical, I would argue that training courses for parents are
unnecessary. Mothers and fathers have been raising children without any formal
help or official interference for thousands of years. Parenting skills are learnt from
family members, friends, neighbours and the surrounding culture. Perhaps more
importantly, adults learn to be good parents by instinct, by trial and error, and by
getting to know their own children; for example, a good parent will try different
strategies when faced with a badly-behaved child, and will gradually develop an
understanding of what works to correct the behaviour. None of this requires the
intervention of a taught course.
In conclusion, while compulsory parenting lessons might seem like a good idea, I
believe that such a scheme would be unworkable and largely pointless.
(289 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, October 03, 2018

IELTS Writing Task 2: 'literature and history' essay

We've been looking at the following task for several weeks, so I think it's time for
a full sample answer.
Some people believe that it is more important to teach children the
literature and history of their own country, rather than the literature and
history of other countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
People have different views about the teaching of national versus global literature
and history in schools. Personally, I support the idea that children should study
first and foremost the great books and historical events of their own countries.
There are several reasons why I believe that schools should focus on teaching
national literature and history. Firstly, children enjoy learning about where they
live, and by studying the ideas, culture and history of their own countries they
begin to develop a sense of identity. At the same time, this approach is appealing
to parents, who studied the same books and historical events and can therefore
help their children with school work. English children, for example, read
Shakespeare and learn about the Battle of Hastings just as their parents did, and
there is educational continuity across the generations. Finally, an emphasis on
national literature and history gives educators a narrower teaching scope, making
curriculum design an easier task.
By contrast, the study of global events and foreign novels could cause
unnecessary difficulty and confusion for school pupils. For example, I do not see
the point in presenting Russian or Chinese history to a British child who has not
yet studied the history of his or her own country in detail. Surely the child would
be more able to comprehend historical events that took place in London than
those that happened in Moscow or Beijing. Similarly, any exposure to
international literature is likely to require the teaching of a foreign language or the
use of translations. Young people at primary or secondary school age are simply
not ready for such complications.
In conclusion, I would argue that it is undesirable for schools to cover aspects of
foreign history and literature; they should ground their pupils in the local culture
instead.
(297 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, October 17, 2018

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IELTS Writing Task 2: 'power of advertising' essay
Somebody asked me whether I had a sample answer for the question below,
which comes from Cambridge IELTS book 6. I realised I had an old essay that I
wrote with some students, so I'm sharing that with you today.
Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of
advertising and not the real needs of the society in which they are sold. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is true that we are increasingly surrounded by advertising by companies that
want to sell us their products. To some extent I agree that advertising has an
impact on sales, but I would also argue that we do need most of the goods that
we buy.
Advertisements can certainly tempt people to buy products that they might not
otherwise want. A good example could be the mobile phone. Every year people
can be seen queuing to buy the latest models, even when they already have a
perfectly good phone that does not need replacing. Perhaps it is the influence of
marketing that leads us to make these kinds of decisions; we want to stay up to
date with the latest fashions or own the newest high-status device. The high
sales of the iPhone seem to support this idea.
On the other hand, I believe that most people do not buy products because of the
advertising alone. There are other good reasons why we make these choices,
and there must be some kind of need before a person makes a purchase. New
versions of products almost always have improved features that buyers may
want. A new car, for example, may have greatly improved safety features, or it
may be more economical to run, or it may pollute less. A new phone may allow
the user to communicate more quickly or effectively, thus enhancing their quality
of life.
In conclusion, while advertising obviously influences our buying behaviour, I do
not agree that people make decisions that go against their real needs.
(261 words)
Note:
I wrote this essay with my students during a lesson using the students' ideas. I
haven't checked it properly, so maybe we can analyse it together. It might not be
perfect!
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Wednesday, December 05, 2018

IELTS Writing Task 2: 'artificial intelligence' essay

Here's my full essay for the question below.
Some people believe that developments in the field of artificial intelligence
will have a positive impact on our lives in the near future. Others, by
contrast, are worried that we are not prepared for a world in which
computers are more intelligent than humans. Discuss both of these views
and give your own opinion.
People seem to be either excited or worried about the future impact of artificial
intelligence. Personally, I can understand the two opposing points of view; I am
both fascinated by developments in artificial intelligence and apprehensive about
its possible negative effects.
On the one hand, the increasing intelligence of technology should bring some
obvious benefits. Machines are clearly able to do many jobs better than humans
can, especially in areas that require high levels of accuracy or calculations using
large amounts of data. For example, robots are being developed that can carry
out surgical procedures with greater precision than a human doctor, and we
already have cars that use sensors and cameras to drive themselves. Such
technologies can improve safety by reducing the likelihood of human errors. It is
easy to imagine how these developments, and many others, will steadily improve
our quality of life.
On the other hand, I share the concerns of people who believe that artificial
intelligence may harm us if we are not careful. In the short term, it is likely that we
will see a rise in unemployment as workers in various industries are replaced by
machines or software programs. For example, self-driving vehicles are expected
to cause redundancies in driving jobs, such as lorry drivers, taxi drivers and bus
drivers. In the medium term, if intelligent technologies gradually take jobs away
from humans, we may find that people become deskilled and lose their sense of
purpose in life. A longer term fear is that computers become so intelligent that
they begin to make decisions without human oversight and without regard for our
well-being.
In conclusion, while intelligent machines will no doubt improve our lives in many
ways, the potential risks of such technologies should not be ignored.
(295 words, band 9)
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Wednesday, January 23, 2019

IELTS Writing Task 2: write the conclusion for me!

I've almost finished the essay below, but can you write a one-sentence
conclusion for me?
Popular hobbies and interests change over time and are more a reflection
of trends and fashions than an indication of what individuals really want to
do in their spare time. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some leisure activities become fashionable for a short time and then disappear
when a new trend comes along, whereas others seem to be perennially popular.
I can therefore only partly agree with the assertion that hobbies reflect changing
fashions rather than our true interests.
On the one hand, it is true that many hobbies are simply passing trends. Children
and teenagers, in particular, are attracted to whatever activity is currently popular
among their peers. My 10-year-old niece, for example, seems to have a new
interest every month, as she joins in with the latest craze that sweeps through
her primary school. Over the last year or so, she has been obsessed with Rubik’s
cubes, fidget spinners, squidgies and slime. In a similar way, there have been
several different fitness trends for adults over recent years, from jogging to yoga
to circuit training, and I doubt whether the majority of participants continued to
enjoy those activities in the long term.
On the other hand, many people spend their free time doing popular activities
that are far from trendy. One good example would be the game chess. Children
and adults who enjoy playing chess are certainly not following a new fashion or
wasting their time on something that they do not truly like. On the contrary, they
are passionate about a game that has existed for hundreds of years, and they
find it inherently fascinating and absorbing. I would say the same about many
other hobbies, from reading to swimming.
In conclusion, while some people are attracted to the latest fashionable hobby,
others choose their pastimes for more genuine reasons.
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Wednesday, March 13, 2019

IELTS Writing Task 2: 'choices' essay

Here's my band 9 sample answer for the question below. I followed the essay
plan that you can see in this lesson.
Some people believe that nowadays we have too many choices. To what
extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
It is often said that modern life presents us with an overwhelming number of
choices. I completely agree with this, and I believe that the Internet and
globalisation are the two major factors involved.
It is undeniable that the Internet has led to a dramatic expansion in the number of
choices that are available to us. The number of online media options, for
instance, is now almost endless. There are countless websites offering
entertainment, news, videos, on-demand TV and music streaming, many of
which are free. I would argue that this abundance of media leads to confusion on
the part of the average user, as we have to make so many decisions about the
content that we consume. A personal example of this trend would be the fact that
I had a choice of just four TV channels when I was a child, whereas I now have
access to thousands of films and series through services like Netflix.
Alongside the influence of the Internet, globalisation is making the world smaller
and compounding this problem of too much choice. Cheap international flights
have made overseas travel possible for millions of people, but this also means
that we are faced with a world of options when deciding where to go on holiday
or even where to live. We no longer have the limited but simple travel choices of
our grandparents’ generation. The same is true if we look at the increasing
tendency for young people to study abroad. While the opportunity for overseas
study seems appealing, many students are confused about where to go and
which path to take.
In conclusion, we are faced with a huge number of options in most areas of life
nowadays, and this is often more bewildering than beneficial.
(293 words)
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Wednesday, August 21, 2019

IELTS Writing Task 2: 'small families' essay

Here's my band 9 sample answer for the task below. We'll analyse it next week.
In many countries today, people in cities either live alone or in small family
units, rather than in large, extended family groups. Is this a positive or
negative trend?
It is true that cities are seeing a rise in smaller families and one-person
households, while the extended family is becoming a rarity. In my opinion, this is
a negative development.
As families become smaller, the traditional family support network is
disappearing, and this can have a negative impact on children as they grow up.
In a nuclear family or single-parent household, childcare becomes an expensive
and stressful part of daily life. Without the help of grandparents or aunts and
uncles, busy parents must rely on babysitters, nannies and after-school clubs to
take care of younger children, while older children may be left alone after school
and during holidays. The absence of adult family members can mean that
friends, television and the Internet become the primary influences on children’s
behaviour. It is no surprise that the decline of the extended family has been
linked to a rise in psychological and behavioural problems amongst young
people.
The trend towards people living alone is perhaps even more damaging because
of the psychological effects of reduced human interaction. Individuals who live on
their own have nobody to talk to in person, so they cannot share problems or
discuss the highs and lows of daily life. They forgo the constant stimulation and
hustle and bustle of a large family, and are left to their own devices for extended
periods of time. The lack of human contact in the home is necessarily replaced
by passive distractions, such as television, video games, online chat rooms or
Internet surfing. This type of existence is associated with boredom, loneliness,
and feelings of isolation or even alienation, all of which are factors that are known
to increase the risk of mental illness.
In conclusion, I believe that individuals thrive when they are part of larger family
groups, and so it is worrying that many people are choosing to live alone or in
such small family units.
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